Fake recruiter scam
Quick answer
A scammer poses as a recruiter from a known company to collect personal information, fees, or banking details.
- Confirm the recruiter through the company's official careers page and HR contacts.
What it is
A scammer poses as a recruiter from a known company to collect personal information, fees, or banking details.
How it works
Using a real company name and a look-alike email or chat profile, the 'recruiter' fast-tracks an offer and requests sensitive documents or payment.
Red flags to watch for
- Email domain that is not the official company domain
- Interviews only by chat
- Requests for ID, bank details, or fees before hire
Example
A recruiter using a known brand name messages from a free email address and rushes an offer. This is risky because impersonators use trusted names to lower your guard.
What not to do
- Do not share documents early
- Do not pay anything
The safe next step
Confirm the recruiter through the company's official careers page and HR contacts.
Often seen on: LinkedIn, Email, WhatsApp, Telegram.
Commonly targets: Professionals, Job seekers.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to the platform and the impersonated company.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a fake recruiter scam?
A scammer poses as a recruiter from a known company to collect personal information, fees, or banking details.
How can I avoid a fake recruiter scam?
Confirm the recruiter through the company's official careers page and HR contacts.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.